Manolis Venios: The Soul of Ottoman String Instruments Manolis Venios, more commonly known as Manol Usta – a title signifying “Master” – stands as a towering figure in the history of Turkish and Armenian luthier craft. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, in 1845, into a family deeply rooted in musical tradition, his life was inextricably linked to the creation and refinement of the *ūd*, a stringed instrument that embodies centuries of cultural exchange and artistic innovation. His story is not merely one of a skilled craftsman; it’s a testament to the enduring power of artistry passed down through ge…